Coastal Vibe Summer 2021 1 WEST COAST WILDERNESSWEST COAST LODGE WILDERNESSWESTWEST COAST COAST WILDERNESS WILDERNESS LODGE LODGE LODGE Lunch & Play Specials (an activityLunch or tour & Play plus Specials lunch) (anLunchLunch activity & Play & Play Specials Specials or (an tour (anactivity activity orplus tour or tour plus lunch) plus lunch) lunch)
HAPPY HAPPY HAPPYHAPPY 7-TIME 7-TIME 7-TIME7-TIME JETSKI JETSKIJETSKIJETSKI WINNER WINNER HOURWINNERWINNER HOUR HOURHOUR & KAYAK & KAYAK& KAYAK& KAYAK AND AND ANDAND RENTALS RENTALSRENTALSRENTALS The BesThe Bes DINING TheThe Bes BesDINING DININGDINING PRINCESS LOUISA INLET TOURPRINCESS LOUISAPRINCESSPRINCESS INLET LOUISA LOUISA INLET TOUR INLET TOUR TOUR Fly from Lodge to Chatterbox Fly from Lodge toFly FlyfromChatterbox from Lodge Lodge to Chatterbox to Chatterbox Falls & return by boat (or do it Fallsin & return by FallsboatFalls & return & return (or by boat bydo boat (or it (ordo initdo in it in reverse order) reverse order) reversereverse order) order) $400 pp (fl y & boat tour) $400 pp (fl y & boat$400 $400 pp (flpp tour)y (fl & y boat & boat tour) tour)
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FLY ’N DINE LUNCH OR DINNERFLY ’N DINE LUNCHFLYFLY ’N DINE’NOR DINE LUNCH DINNER LUNCH OR ORDINNER DINNER Fly from Sechelt to Lodge & returnFly from for Sechelt toFly FlyfromLodge from Sechelt Sechelt to& Lodge to return Lodge & return & return for for gourmet lunch or dinner at WCWLgourmet lunch orgourmet dinnergourmet lunch lunch orat dinner or WCWL dinner at WCWL at WCWL LUNCH DINNER LUNCH DINNER LUNCH LUNCH DINNER DINNER $125 pp $225 pp $125 pp $225 $125 pp$125 pp pp $225 $225 pp pp LUNCH & PLAYConstruction SPECIALS,LUNCH & PLAY SPECIALS, LUNCHLUNCH & PLAY& PLAY SPECIALS, SPECIALS, FLYIN FLYOUT DINING,FLYIN FLYOUT DINING,Book your Fly ’n DineFLYINFLYIN FLYOUT FLYOUTBook DINING, DINING, your Fly ’n DineBookBook your your Fly Fly ’n Dine ’n Dine experience with: experience with: experienceexperience with: with: FLOATPLANE & BOATCustomFLOATPLANE TOURS Homes & BOAT TOURS FLOATPLANEFLOATPLANE &604.740.8889 BOAT& BOAT TOURS TOURS 604.740.8889604.740.8889604.740.8889 ConstructionConstructionRenovation CustomCustom Homes Homes Renovation 2 Locations To Serve You Renovation With All Your Seasonal Needs Gibsons Home Hardware Trail Bay Home Hardware 921 Gibsons Way, 5484 Trail Ave, Gibsons, B.C V0N 1V9 Sechelt, B.C. V0N 3A0 604-886-2442 604-885-9828
No job too big or small Local Sunshine Coast company We use the latest building software Award Winning Custom Home Builder 5 Million Liability Insurance and WCB Coverage https://www.homehardware.ca/store/51970 https://www.homehardware.ca/store/51784 Quality, Integrity, Transparent and over 35 years of experience 2 Coastal Vibe Summer 2021 Coastal Vibe Summer 2021 3 CONTENTS Contributors HAPPY TRAILS PUBLISHER MEGAN WARRENDER 7 Mountain Biking [email protected] Founder of the Valley Vibe magazine on Vancouver Island. Megan’s passion is to PEACE ON THE connect the local community to all the WATER amazing places and businesses. 11 Kayaking
EDITOR & MARKETING THE GREAT Stephanie Taylor EXPLORATION As local resident of the Coast for over 23 12 Geocatching years, Stephanie is passionate to share why she loves where she lives to everyone she meets. THE WONDER OF PRINCESS LOUISA 13 Create Your Dream Coastal Home WRITER Sunshine Coast Museum & Archives Designed Cabinetry, Flooring, Kitchen & NICOLE BRAZZALE Photo #612 Bathroom Solu�ons [email protected] Ken Montgomery . 604-885-8024 An experienced writer, life coach and BAYS ON THE COAST personal trainer. 16 - 19 [email protected] GIBSONS LANDING Roofing the Entire Sunshine Coast! 20 Seaside Village WCB COVERED FULLY INSURED WRITER Thomas Property Glen Mofford https://raincoasthistory.blogspot.ca/ Maintenance Glen takes us back in time to the history of the hotels, saloons and pubs of Vancouver CLIMB FOR Island. CLIMATE CHANGE 22
Residential & PHOTOGRAPHER EXPLORING THE Commercial Roofing NANCY SHIELDS COAST We do it all! With over 10 years of photography 25 Cliff Gilker Park experience Nancy have found herself Free Estimates • All Work is Guaranteed striving to push her visual boundaries • Dump-runs • Power Washing further. She enjoys hunting for powder HISTORIC HOTEL filled mountains in the winter, riding her • Yardwork • Moss Removal bicycle and a good cup of coffee. 26 Wakefield Inn • Tree Trimming/Hedges • House Cleaning • Window Washing & more…. WRITER THE GREAT TIDES Aaron Thomas 604-865-0333 Heather Jeal 28 Skookumchuck Leah Thomas 604-989-6486 A local freelance writer, Heather has called Sechelt her home since 1997. Over the [email protected] Email: [email protected] years Heather has contributed to many www.thomaspropertymaintenance.com ARE WE THERE YET? Phone: (604) 741-5679 local publications, and spends her free time with her Mexican rescue dog Daphne. 30 New to the Sunshine Please contact us for a free, www.undercover roofing.ca Coast no-obligation estimate for our services 4 Coastal Vibe Summer 2021 Coastal Vibe Summer 2021 5 Letter from the Editor
Oscar Taylor 2005-2020
“The only way of finding the limits of the possible is by going beyond them into the impossible” I am so proud and excited to share our second issue of the Coastal Vibe. In this issue you will learn more about our beautiful community. Stories of people who went beyond what some of us would have thought impossible and the feeling of great satisfaction in a job well done. You will learn about the unlimited adventures that are laying in wait all around you. The opportunities to go past the limits we set for ourselves, and to learn to grow by reaching out to what is possible. I invite you to explore, ask questions and come out of your comfort zone. It is a way to connect with others that you may not have ever had the chance to do on another level or time. Two years ago, I would have never thought I would be given a gift to share with residents – our incredible community. Let us exceed your expectations! Every day is a blessing to be living here. Everyday is a visitors, then, to rave over the number and quality ee hh’’ss blessing to not only go out and try something new, but to Happy trails to you! of our forest trails – and they do – as the Sunshine tt take the limits off what you think you can accomplish with Coast enjoys a growing reputation as a destination your life. Every day is a blessing to take what you have Whether hiking or biking, the Sunshine Coast’s trail for cycling tourism (“bikepacking”) and international- FullFullSS SerServicevice SalonSalon learned and share it with others. network offers hundreds of options year-round for calibre downhill and cross-country racing. Enjoy reading this beautiful magazine, and please take every use, every age and every ability – including for men and women advantage of getting to know your inner child. Thank you those using mobility-assist devices. Brice Shirbach, a reviewer for the widely-read for being a part of our community. pinkbike.com site, visited the Sunshine Coast in Sept Colour, Highlights Stephanie Taylor The most popular trails are well-groomed and of 2019 and fell into a state of awe. “I experienced well-marked, maintained by the SCRD recreation two full days of sunshine out of my seven on the Permanent Makeup, Esthetics department and easily accessible by car. The most Sunshine Coast, and this would still prove to be one To VIEW our online edition go to challenging are at higher elevations and suited to of the most impactful and eye-opening mountain www.thevalleyvibe.ca advanced-level mountain bikers or experienced, fit bike trips of my life. The people, the scenery, and the and well-prepared hikers. Whichever you choose, trails would, in the end, prove to be game changing 604.883.0511 To DISTRIBUTE the CV contact prepare by wearing appropriate footwear and for me” he wrote, adding that he “loved everything [email protected] clothing, bring water and a communication device I rode. All of it. Nothing left me feeling anything and be prepared to be awed. short of pure joy.” The many photos he posted to 12374 Sunshine Coast Hwy. THANK YOU to the Sunshine Coast for your support on accompany his review bore testimony of that joy. stephsbeautyboutique.com our first issue. By enjoying this issue you’re supporting our coastal community. Longtime Coast residents tend to take the beauty of our natural surroundings for granted. Leave it to the What put the Sunshine Coast’s trails on the map? 6 Coastal Vibe Summer 2021 Coastal Vibe Summer 2021 7 Photo credit: Krysta Norwick more groomed trails to West Porpoise Bay and West Sechelt neighbourhoods. These are designated off-leash areas for dogs, but owners must keep their animals close and well-supervised as coyotes, bears and deer also make their homes in these areas.
Sechelt’s East Porpoise Bay neighbourhood has several networks of walking trails, notably in the Community Forest and just a bit further up the road, at Hidden Grove (which has a nice, big sign to let you know it’s there.) Nearest the parking area, the well-groomed and well-marked blue trail is designed to be wheelchair-accessible. More challenging trails following the parks varying elevations, in and out of ravines, require appropriate footwear. Also designated an off-leash area, the same rules apply as for Kinnickinnick.
For the ultimate adrenaline surge, Sechelt’s internationally famous Coast Gravity Park (coastgravitypark.ca). BC’s only year-round, shuttle- accessed mountain biking facility. Built by the Coastal Crew on 160 hectares of privately-owned land, the park accesses 4,448 meters of trails, including 16 downhill trails of varying challenge. The whole park Some would argue it was the BC Bike Race the park area and watch for the signs. is designed for gravity-fed speed with significant incorporating the Sunshine Coast as a two-day challenges for the ultimate XC and downhill cyclist – component of its marathon annual race each June. To access the lacy network of trails in Roberts but with easy riding trails for those new to the sport But the race wouldn’t have come to the Coast Creek, download the map at sunshinecoast-trail. too. Coast Gravity Park offers lessons for all levels, without the work of dedicated, near-fanatical com/plan-your-hike and head up B&K Road from and a comfortable open-air base “lodge” with a fire volunteer trailbuilders who carved out the 690-odd Highway 101. These are the trails featured in the pit, grill, seating area, and a chance to chat with other trails through the brush – turning old logging skids 2009 film “Kranked 8: Revolve” that is a cult favourite cyclists. into challenging, well-built routes. And those trails with mountain bikers. Starring the “Coastal Crew” wouldn’t be so excellent if it weren’t for the dedicated, and the breathtaking wilderness scenery, the fast- For “bikepackers” intent on exploring the BC Bike near-fanatical cyclists who helped design and build paced documentary follows riders along the trails’ Race route or other major long-distance rides, the them and who groom them with religious fervor. switchbacks, jumps, and challenges. Most of those Sunshine Coast Trail can be a tailor-made adventure. trails were built by the Crew and volunteers with the # The trail is used by hikers as well as cyclists, and The Sunshine Coast’s 1 Pest Control Company The first set of purpose-built cycling trails evolved Coast Mountain Bike Trail Association (cmbta.com). each must make space for the other. Make space For Residential, Commercial, Industrial, and Marine Markets near Langdale, where Doug Detwiler’s team of A decade after Kranked hit the internet, Shirbach for the wildlife also, and prepare to keep food and students from his Sprockids club set up the first rode the route and noted that “the depth of loam other attractants out of reach of passing bears when routes that would help newcomers to the sport gain and organics throughout virtually every single trail is camping or stopping at one of the cabin shelters. • We Banish Bugs confidence and ability. In the ensuing decades, club staggering.” This is an exceptionally easy network to Check the trail map for access points. ☐ • Solutions Based Approach members have continued to build and maintain the shuttle between trails. • Sanitation Experts • Monthly Maintenance Programs trails and add levels of complexity and challenge. For information on other areas, or to network with other bikers, As with most of the Coast’s trail networks, the Sechelt’s trails offer slightly different terrain, with hikers or trailbuilders: ones nearest the base are easiest. Terrain becomes more rock outcrops and varying elevations in the trail Sunshine Coast United Mountain Bikers (scumb.ca) Family Owned & Operated since 1976, Owner Ron Dickinson is an Entomologist. more challenging as the trail network ascends the network. This can provide more of a cross-country Coast Mountain Bike Trails Association (cmbta.ca) Trailforks.com mountain. Even here, there are plenty of ride-around experience rather than a downhill mountain biking Mtbproject.com Phone Email options, also areas to practice jumps and stunts.. ride. Trails at Kinnickinnick Park can be very muddy, Pinkbike.com Main: 604-886-1977 [email protected] Getting there: At the top of the Gibsons Bypass (at the even underwater for long stretches, during the Sunshinecoastcycling.ca Toll Free: 1-877-782-1976 flashing signal light) turn right on Stewart to go into rainy season. These connect through much wider, sunshinecoast-trail.com/plan-your-hike/ 8 Coastal Vibe Summer 2021 Coastal Vibe Summer 2021 9 Photo credit: Nancy Shields Home Decor | Kitchenware True Peace Local & Canadian Artisans Jewelry | Children’s Toys on the Water And More! It’s an addiction. Getting out on the quiet, protected waters of West Howe Sound or Porpoise Bay or paddling across Madeira Parks Premier Gift Shop one of Pender Harbour’s serene lakes is seductive. where there is something for everyone. The almost silent dip of the paddle, the smooth glide across the ocean’s surface, the sense of being one with the natural surroundings is different from any other water sport except, possibly, stand-up paddleboarding. Today’s lightweight kayaks, and the sport’s reliance on finesse with the paddle rather than #1-12887 Madeira Park Rd, brute strength, make it an ideal activity for all ages Madeira Park, BC and abilities. Women have discovered the joy of kayaking in recent years and now make up almost Ground Waves West 50 percent of the activity’s participant base. @groundwaveswest Kayaking is easy to learn. An introductory session Product info: www.groundwaves.ca can take as little as two hours; with a morning’s instruction, paddlers can be out on the water in the afternoon (preferably in a group with the instructor). Part of the joy of kayaking is its flexibility. It can be a solo activity, or a couple can hop into a dual canoe and paddle off together into the sunset. Talbot Insurance provides a broad range of insurance Or a group can gather for a relaxing paddle products, tailored to meet the needs of our clients. Our to a shared destination, enjoy a picnic or just service area includes the Sechelt Peninsula including rendezvous and return to cap off the journey with Gibsons, Sechelt, Roberts Creek and the Coast Islands. a beverage or a meal. Or it can be competitive, Losing a paddle is nothing compared to losing a life, agencies, will drill into kayakers at every level: make ICBC AutoPlan, Private Auto & Recreational Vehicles with races or endurance tests. It can be a quick and any novice kayaker is strongly advised to take sure you have a map of your intended paddle route; Home, Condo & Tenants Rental, Seasonal & Vacation Rental Homes in-and-out activity, or a days’-long adventure lessons from a pro, to learn how to recover from file a paddle plan with a responsible person before Course of Construction & Renovation Projects involving portages and overnight camping. being capsized – which can happen to anyone, if a you set off; paddle with a companion if at all possible, Commercial & Business Insurance Pleasure & Commercial Marine rogue wave catches one unaware and amidships – or especially in unfamiliar waters; never remove your Whatever the choice, kayakers agree: there’s no Special Risks – Residential & Commercial caught in a strong current. life jacket when on the water; take a communication better way to spend their down time than having device with you and ensure it is well protected in a a paddle in hand, and hearing the water lapping at **DISCOUNTS, PAYMENT The Sunshine Coast is fortunate to have many waterproof case that is easily accessible (and floats). the sides of their vessel. PLANS & PREMIUM excellent kayak training facilities, all of which have FINANCING AVAILABLE** There is no single, one-size-fits-all kayak design. safety first in mind for each of their students. Most For ocean kayakers, the same restrictions pertaining instructors have received training from, or are to marine life apply to paddlers as to other vessels: OPEN Most, but not all, have closed cockpits; some are designed for paddlers to sit atop rather than registered with BC Kayak Centre or Sea Kayak Guides do not approach them. If marine mammals are Monday through Saturday Alliance of BC. All are passionate about the sport and spotted approaching you, paddle out of their path if 8:30am to 6:00pm inside. Some are designed to be extra roomy for taller paddlers, or for those planning to bring extra committed to sharing their joy with newcomers to possible or come to a complete stop until they have #112-1100 Sunshine Coast Highway, Gibsons/IGA Park Plaza gear or a ride-along child or pet. Virtually all have the sport. passed. Remember that many species are protected General email: [email protected] some form of leash to attach the paddle because and/or endangered, including waterfowl. Enjoy them Phone: 604-886-2555 Fax 604-886-2563 that is not something one wants to lose. As instructors, and reputable equipment rental from a distance. Happy paddling! ☐ 10 Coastal Vibe Summer 2021 Coastal Vibe Summer 2021 11 Geocaching adds all the fun of a treasure hunt to and urban, wilderness and even undersea caches are regular trail walking. hidden in very sneaky locations. Serving the Sunshine Coast Armed with a downloadable map and compass or a Some of the caches are right in the heart of the The Great GPS device (a well-charged smartphone with GPS app urban areas. The locations of these are among the works too), anyone, of any age, can enjoy the hunt. sneakiest, even if they are most accessible to all Darrin Goss Whatever your dream, I abilities. RE/MAX City Realty can assist you throughout Exploration! Geocaching is not just a hobby, and it’s not just 604-740-2333 the buying or selling of your exercise. It’s an adventure, and it teaches very useful Getting out on the trails provides a chance for all darringossrealestate.com home and property… just skills in navigation, map reading, use of GPS, and even ages to enjoy the natural beauty of our provincial and [email protected] give me a call! sharing as cache items are swapped out. It is ideal regional parks and awesome trail systems. However, for all ages and can be as challenging, or as basic, as since WiFi reception might be problematic on some participants wish. Some caches are “puzzles” with of the more remote trails, printing off as much Client Focused - Results Driven clues that must be deciphered to find the coordinates. information as possible before you go – and relying Others are very straightforward and great for on a compass as well as a GPS – makes sure the fun beginners or very young seekers. This inclusiveness isn’t interrupted by a poor signal. makes this a great summertime family activity, or an all-year-round hobby for singles, couples or teams. Some geocache teams add metal detecting to TM the hunt, but this does require more specialized Eco-Freako Each cache is different and each cache changes from equipment – namely, a metal detector. With one in since 1996 day to day, as hunters find them, swap out trinkets hand, though, a trip to the beach or walk in the park and record their discovery in the cache logbook. New becomes much more exciting – like prospecting for caches are added regularly, so access to an online precious metals. Eco-freako L’il Shop in the Village map from geocaching.com is most useful. The cache Wed - Fri 12:30 - 5:30 · Sat 11-5 may vary in size, from a small waterproof baggie to a Happy hunting! ☐ 1055 Roberts Creek Rd, Roberts Creek BC larger Tupperware container and anything in between. ecofreako.ca · 604-399-8103 [email protected] Contents may include painted rocks, crystals, small toys (like those found in Kinder Surprise eggs) or joke items which finders swap for their own items of The Wonder of similar value. There are hundreds of caches hidden all over the Sunshine Coast, and finding them is a great way to discover the beauty of this community. Princess Louisa PROUD TOPROUD SUPPORT TO THE SUPPORT WORKS THE OF ROTARY WORKS OF ROTARY Start by setting up an account on geocaching.com. It’s free, and allows access to maps of geocache sites The myriad waterfalls of the Sunshine Coast, beloved on the Coast and beyond. The map for the Sunshine by local and visiting artists and photographers, Coast even provides hints and other data about the include perhaps the most spectacularPROUD naturalPROUD TO TO SUPPORT SUPPORT THE THE WORKS WORKS OF OF ROTARY ROTARY various locations. Most people use code names when wonder of North America’s west coast: Chatterbox signing the log books. Since this is a hunt for buried Falls, at the head of Princess Louisa Inlet (swiwelát). or hidden treasure, it might be fun to invent a pirate Tumbling 40 meters (120 feet) down the sheer cliff Visit our showroom Monday – Friday 8:30am - 4pm name, or take on a Dora the Explorer type of persona face, the falls are the final awe-inspiring view in a Visit our showroom Monday – Friday 8:30am - 4pm to mix role-playing with geocaching. Heating • Air Conditioning cruise up this five-kilometer-long fjord. Fireplace • Sales Heating& Service • Air Conditioning Fireplace • Sales & Service Now for the hunt. Locally Owned & Operated Long-ago glaciers gouged this narrow, hidden Serving the Coast forLocally over 40 Owned years & Operated On the geocaching.com website, choose a cache waterway from the granite mountainside. Visit Its Visit our our showroom 1081showroom Seamount Monday Monday Way, Gibsons– Friday – Friday • 604-886-7111 8:30am 8:30am - •4pm www.thomasheating.ca - 4pmServing the Coast for over 40 years destination and enter the coordinates into the GPS. entrance from Jervis Inlet is tucked behind a curve of 1081• HeatingHeating SeamountHeating • Air • Way, •AirConditioning Air Conditioning GibsonsConditioning • 604-886-7111 • www.thomasheating.ca Head for that location, and begin the search. When rock outcropping and can be accessed only by water • FireplaceFireplaceFireplace • Sales •• Sales Sales & Service & Service or if the cache is found, participants enter their name or floatplane, and accessed safely only during slack and date in the logbook and if there are items to be LocallyLocally Owned Owned & Operated & Operated tide. Like the Skookumchuck Narrows, the ebb and ServingServing the Coastthe Coast for overfor over 40 years40 years traded, then swap out whatever trinket your team neap tides present serious challenges to navigation has brought for that purpose. Remember: having the at the entrance to the inlet. Chartered1081 tour1081 Seamount operators Seamount Way, Way, Gibsons Gibsons • 604-886-71111081 • 604-886-7111 Seamount • www.thomasheating.ca • www.thomasheating.ca Way, Gibsons coordinates does not guarantee a cache will be found, in nearby Egmont, and floatplane tours from Sechelt, 604-886-7111 • www.thomasheating.ca 12 Coastal Vibe Summer 2021 Coastal Vibe Summer 2021 13 provide safe and informative access to Princess then, just as suddenly as he erupted on the Princess I had a small table, a couple books, and a sign that stated, ‘Certified Louisa Inlet Marine Park. Louisa scene, Hamilton abandoned it – leaving food Herbalist Q & A’. This is how I started my business. I wanted to introduce myself to the local community, even though I had been in cooking pots and on dining tables, and a yacht tied here for 4 years, I still felt like a newcomer. I situated myself at the Most of the area bordering the inlet is either to the dock with hatches open to fill with rainwater local Wednesday RC Farm Gate Eco Market. My little Q & A was met designated provincial parkland (donated to the and sink. with a lot of interest, intrigue, and of course, questions and answers. province for this purpose in the 1960s), protected My passion, my years of schooling (5 years+), my love and openness to want to help others with from further development, private property Young Life later bought the resort and still operates it herbal medicine had finally commenced. 2 years in, I have always reinvested anything I have made back into my business. I now have a budding therapeutic herbal practice, helping locals covenanted for future parkland, or shíshálh Nation as a children’s camp. through in-depth consultations and custom herbal protocols, I do eastern bodywork techniques territory. Discoveries of ancient artifacts in the like cupping and moxibustion, and I make numerous wild-foraged, garden-grown herbal medicine bordering lands have sealed its importance as an Meanwhile, Mac – still resident in Princess Louisa products, which I sell at the same market I started in! This year I opened my doors to my new indigenous historical site. Inlet and holding title to much of the adjacent East-West herbal apothecary/office/shop right in my own front yard, which is a restored 104-year- land – deeded his property to the Princess Louisa old log cabin. Keep me on your radar for new and exciting growth come 2022 and thank you to everyone for supporting my small business throughout these amazing/trying 2 years. I am so Termed “the most beautiful anchorage in the world,” International Society (princesslouisa.bc.ca), with grateful to be a part of such a loving community like the Sunshine Coast and I am excited to see in summer months, the available mooring buoys, a clause indicating the intention to turn the land what the future holds. Start your traditional and modern herbal healing journey today! boat and dinghy docks are usually filled by visitors over to the province as a park. An active fundraising Shannon Hobson and local tour operators. and conservation group, the Society has acquired Certified East-West Herbalist significant parcels of land to expand the park’s Founder of Natural Know How In late spring and early summer, as the mountain boundaries. Most recently, in 2003, the Society, Herbal Apothecary, Office & Shop location: 942 Maskell Rd Roberts Creek snowpack melts, the fjord is rimmed with waterfalls working with the Nature Conservancy of Canada and Shop open times: Thursdays 11 to 4pm, Saturdays 11 to 2pm cascading down its sheer sides, some towering as the Tula Foundation, the Princess Louisa Society Clinical hours for appointments: Tuesdays 9 to 5pm, Thursdays 11 to 4pm, Saturdays 11 to 2pm much as 2100 metres (7000 feet) above the water’s acquired 2,221 acres from MacMillan Bloedel’s Website and more information visit www.natural-knowhow.com edge. And of course the centerpiece of this natural successor, Weyerhauser. Private groups and IG: natural_knowhow wonder, literally, is Chatterbox Falls at the extreme individuals who shared Macdonald’s passion to keep FB: Natural-Know How head of the inlet. the inlet undeveloped have purchased and placed Phone: #604-993-0169 conservation covenants on adjacent land parcels. The current provincial park area was first purchased by James F. Macdonald in the 1920s for $420. Using The park was closed for part of 2020 but has re- huge peeled cedar logs, just at the start of the opened for 2021. Visitors are welcome, dogs must be Depression he built a lodge and welcomed visiting leashed, and all are requested to keep to the posted yachts, fishers, and forestry workers to his home. trails, and camp only in designated sites. As in all According to legend, “Mac” was a gregarious host provincial parks and wilderness sites, please observe and a flamboyant entertainer – literally. His fire fire regulations and “if you pack it in, pack it out.” dance, using alcohol on parts of his body, was his In the Park Ranger’s year-end report, describing an prime party piece. In his last performance, he set uptick in activity in Princess Louisa Inlet marine and fire to the curtains which put a damper on further campsite activity, they noted “The main concerns… entertainments of that type. are waste management, fires and property damage. Hopefully it was a one season occurrence as it would The original lodge burned to the ground in 1941 (not be a shame to see the inlet littered with Private due to Mac’s dancing – he was away at the time). Property signs.”
In 1940 Tom Hamilton purchased the islands from For those wishing to get out on the water and tour Mac for $18,000 (a nice return on investment) and the inlet, sightseeing tours can be booked through another 9,381 acres at the mouth of the inlet from the the Egmont Adventure Centre at West Coast Canadian government. His Camp Malibu was built Wilderness Lodge (egmontadventurecentre.com) and marketed as an exclusive club for millionaires – or through tour operators moored at the Backeddy and did indeed attract many celebrities and business Resort and Marina (backeddy.ca) moguls of the day. The series of log cabins were decorated with Southwest United States First Nations Here’s to experiencing the magnificent beauty of art and a “totem pole” on site was carved with the nature as you take in all the surroundings and gather faces of Hamilton’s family, topped by a thunderbird. memories. ☐ He even barged in soil and turf for a golf course. And 14 Coastal Vibe Summer 2021 Coastal Vibe Summer 2021 15 Photo credit: Nancy Shields
Exploring the Bays of the Coast
Since the time of the first indigenous settlers, the pebbled shores near Bay Road. It’s a great spot trails in the parks offer varying degrees of challenge. neighbourhood, Welcome Woods, wraps day-use communities on what is now known as Canada’s to build sandcastles at low tide, and popular with Some even connect to other regional parks and local Sargeant Bay Provincial Park in a forested embrace. Sunshine Coast have clustered near – and depended kite-surfers and swimmers (although currents can village hubs. In all the parks, signs warn visitors There’s no dock on this bay, but it’s an easy launch upon – the Salish Sea. Its sheltered bays and fjords be treacherous when the tide changes). Highway that these areas are shared with wildlife: deer, elk, site for kayaks and a favourite with divers. The have provided sanctuary for boaters, and a rich 101 skirts the seawalk’s full length, and crossing it to raccoons, coyote, wolf and cougar make their homes reedy lagoon, separated from the beach area, is source of food. The primeval, soul-soothing sound of access the seaside restaurants and other amenities in the forested uplands and regularly travel through a birdwatcher’s delight. Kudos to the Sargeant waves on the pebble beaches are an invitation to rest, can be challenging during the summer months. the parkland in search of food. In provincial parks, Bay Society (sargbay.ca), a volunteer stewardship recharge, and repair the human spirit. On Canada’s In countless photographs, the Davis Bay pier is dogs must be leashed at all times, for their own organization which continues to work closely with BC Sunshine Coast, we are blessed with an abundance of silhouetted against a backdrop of vivid colour. If safety as well as that of the resident animals. Parks for the protection of the area’s natural habitat, access in our many bayside communities. you’re sittin’ on this dock on the bay at sunset, you wetlands and watershed. Hikers and cyclists may may be tempted to applaud the show. Halfmoon Bay Regional District (Salish: xwilkway ) is wish to explore trails up Colvin Creek area to the fish Sechelt’s Davis Bay may be the most-photographed home to four provincial parks and two regional parks. ladder, continuing on as far as Triangle Lake, Fawn of the Coast’s beaches and byways but it is only one For a more rustic Oceanside experience, provincial Road Market, Connor Park adjacent to Halfmoon Bay of several retreats (and the most urban of the crop.) parks at Sargeant Bay, Smuggler Cove, Buccaneer Bay Just north of its boundary with Sechelt, leave Community School, and Welcome Woods Wilderness The kilometer-long Davis Bay Seawalk stretches and Garden Bay preserve beach access and forested Highway 101 to follow Redrooffs Road to the District. from Mission Point park and its sandy beaches to uplands. In addition to water activities, nearby hiking point where Halfmoon Bay’s southernmost 16 Coastal Vibe Summer 2021 Coastal Vibe Summer 2021 17 Follow Redrooffs Road north to Coopers Green trafficker, who would smuggle in Chinese immigrants “The best way to see Pender Harbour is from the and gear, carry water and communication devices regional park. This shady seaside neighbourhood bent on avoiding the $100 head tax. water,” according to the operator of SloCat Harbour for these hikes. The hike up is steep, with up to 30 hub has hosted many annual events over the years. Tours. The SloCat began service in 1993, when the percent inclines, and the hike down exercises a Featuring a no-fee boat launch and proximity to Secret Cove is one of the points of access to infamous “FastCat” ferries were plying the waters whole different set of muscles. Garden Bay Lake is an excellent dive sites in sheltered waters, Coopers Buccaneer Bay Marine Park on the southern tip of between Nanaimo and Horseshoe Bay. The SloCat’s excellent cooling-off spot when returning to “base.” Green’s pebble beach is busy year round. Thormanby Island. Water taxi service runs from 90-minute tour hits the high spots of the many bays Buccaneer Marina daily year-round. The 45-hectare sheltered by Francis Peninsula, including notorious An interesting bit of local lore: The area is not named To find a dock on Halfmoon Bay, drive a bit further park is also easily accessible by kayak or private boat, shipwreck sites (including the wreck of the 366-foot for its lush growth or lovely residential gardens. up Redrooffs to Mintie Road and park by the historic with sandy beaches for swimming or picnicking and HMCS Chaudiere) beloved of scuba divers. For those Like many a BC landmark, it was named after an Halfmoon Bay General Store. Pick up a coffee five backcountry campsites. However, the park’s wishing a more in-depth view of Garden or Hospital otherwise-unremarkable government functionary. In and walk a bit further along Mintie to find the noteworthy sand bluffs are a designated sensitive Bay, access by land is a 30-minute drive north from this case, the surveyor who mapped and named the Government Wharf. It’s a nice spot to relax and enjoy ecological zone – look, don’t climb. Madeira Park along Highway 101, then west along area was Mr. Garden. And there you have it – Garden’s a view of Thormanby and Merry Islands, or a glimpse Garden Bay Road at the Kleindale intersection. all over the place. of the waterfront homes now lining the bay. Continue along Mercer Road to its reconnection point at Highway 101 and head north into Pender Harbour Garden Bay Road skirts Garden Bay Lake to arrive Continue down Garden Bay Road to its terminus at Back on Highway 101, continue north and turn off Regional District. Here the shoreline wrinkles into at Garden Bay Marine Provincial Park. Yes, there is a Hospital Bay. It’s a great place to stop and enjoy the at Mercer Road to discover the sheltered waters of myriad small bays, coves and fjords before wrapping dock on this bay – known as a “dinghy dock” – and healing view. The original hospital for which the bay Secret Cove. Why is it a secret? When approaching around the northern tip of the peninsula and flowing lots of secure anchorage off its 650 ft shoreline. was named occupied the building now known as by water, the cove’s entrance is not obvious until into Sechelt Inlet. And each of these bays and coves The park is popular with swimmers and divers. Sundowner Inn. The hospital relocated to Sechelt in the boater is almost past. It’s great for paddlers but bristle with private and public docks. In the area’s The main trails are not accessible from the Marine the 1960s, and the Sundowner has been closed for access to the water from the shore is very limited. main commercial hub, Madeira Park’s busy working Park; enter them from Garden Bay Road. Hikers some years (and is rumoured to be haunted.) Within Secret Cove we find Smuggler Cove (not harbor is a treat to visit. In season, fishing boats sell are strongly advised to keep to the posted trails to “Smuggler’s” or any variation thereof) with its their catch of spotted prawns and other seafood avoid destroying fragile ecosystems. Some trails, Wherever you choose to drop anchor on Canada’s interesting history. Apparently the area was a hideout dockside at the Government Wharf. including the ones that summit nearby Mount Daniel, Sunshine Coast, there’s a dock on a bay waiting for and landing area for a notorious 19th century human are quite challenging. Wear appropriate clothing you to sit in peace and just watch the tide roll away. ☐ 24 HOUR Now you can have it all 24 SERVICE Bundle Internet and TV and save on all HOUR your favourite things. SERVICE 24 HOUR Essentials+Helping you move forward Bundle 24 Choose the channels you want with HOUR SERVICE TV Channel Exchange INTEGRITY. KNOWLEDGEABLE.SERVICE CARING Fibre Link Internet 100 Add WiFi Perfected for fast and secure internet everywhere in your home for just $5/mo Now only 2-year 24 HOUR SERVICE 95 price $ * guarantee! 604 740-7688 - /mo THERE’S NO BUSINESS LIKE TOW BUSINESS 129$ .95 Regular price 175 /mo 604-740-7688THERE’S NO BUSINESS LIKE TOW BUSINESS [email protected] THERE’S NO BUSINESS LIKE TOW BUSINESS Call ustoday 1-888-345-1111 *Taxes and movie/event rentals (where applicable), incur additional charges. Internet and Video packages are conditional THERE’S NO BUSINESS LIKE TOW BUSINESS upon entering into a 2-year (24 month) service agreement. 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18 Coastal Vibe Summer 2021 Coastal Vibe Summer 2021 19 ensuring a steady flow of clientele have invested considerable energy and resources Gower Point Road shopping area. During the summer hungry for “Relic Burgers” and in adapting these historic buildings to welcome months, Winegarden often hosts open-air, free The Gems of other diner fare. Now under new all, especially the area restaurants. The mile-long concerts as part of the Town’s “Music in the Landing” management, with a fresh new menu seawalk that borders Gibsons Landing is very program. Watch for exciting updated entertainment Gibsons Landing and refurbished interior, Molly’s is accessible for all and offers up-close views of the announcements in the near future. again the heart of Gibson’s Landing. marinas and marine life that thrive in this sheltered harbor. A newly-constructed link allows walkers to continue Reminiscent of mid-century Sausalito past the Hyak Marine area and end at Gibsons near San Francisco, historic Gibson’s The seawalk starts at Armours Beach, which Marina. The Marina’s pocket park, with its gnomes Landing is home to an eclectic mix offers excellent swimming in the summer months. and mature plantings, provides a lovely shady spot of boutiques, restaurants & unique Unfortunately nearby parking is limited. Passing a to rest and admire the sculpted gate on its dock. coffee shops, specialty gift shops series of homes dating back to the 1920s to 1950s, Pick up coffee and a treat at the adjacent Gibsons Photo credit: Michelle Haggenmuller and galleries. Most of the Town of walkers may spot seals, herons, kingfishers, and Public Market, or enjoy Happy Hour at its in-house Gibsons’ cultural amenities are perhaps orcas following the spawning salmon to their café and admire the marine display that connects Across Canada and around the world, the historic located in the Landing: Gibsons Public Art Gallery home creeks in Howe Sound. At the Government the market’s three levels. Fully accessible, the Market original village site where George Gibson first came (gpag.ca), the Sunshine Coast Museum and Archives Wharf, a ramp provides an easy access for all to the often features live entertainment, art displays, ashore is known as “Gibson’s Landing.” (sunshinecoastmuseum.ca), the town hall (gibsons. adjacent docks, where fishboats offer their seasonal seminars, cooking demonstrations and classes, and ca), and the Nicholas Sonntag Marine Education and frozen-at-sea catch for sale. Picturesque of course the Sonntag Marine Education Centre with Built in 1926 as a general store, the building that Centre (gibsonsmarine-ed.org). houseboats decked with floating gardens beckon its summertime day camps for the younger set. became Molly’s sat empty before the CBC rolled into photographers to capture the colour, and the wharf town in 1972 and redeveloped it into Nick’s office Built on the side of a hill, moving from the block- leads walkers into the heart of the village. For those who love to kayak, the boat launch at and Molly’s café. After the CBC rolled on in 1990, long shopping area on Marine Drive to the block- Gibsons Marina is a favourite spot to launch. Or just the building returned to its empty former existence long shopping area on Gower Point Road (or even Continuing along the seawalk, a short stroll leads stroll back along the seawalk, saying hello to all the to the intermediate Molly’s Lane shops) requires a into Winegarden Waterfront Park, with gently graded others out enjoying the sights,adad proof sounds proof and scents of until a local entrepreneur leased the premises and ad proof created an actual restaurant, retaining the name and bit of a climb. Many of the newest entrepreneurs trails that lead to the parking area at the edge of the beautiful downtown Gibsons. ☐
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20 Coastal Vibe Summer 2021 Coastal Vibe Summer 2021 21 to create new laws around sustainable energy, like having new house builds include the wiring for solar Climb for panels initiatives to make BC greener and better. The BCSEA has a program called Cool It, which educates children on how to live greener within their homes Climate Change and communities.
The pair wanted to help the BCSPCA- Sunshine Coast as animal welfare is incredibly important to them both. They have adopted all of their animals from the SPCA, and since they are a non-profit organization, Megan and Cody wanted to help them zero their hydro bill by installing solar panels. The Sunshine Coast SPCA has space for 42 solar panels, which would accomplish the goal of zeroing their hydro bill; so far through Megan and Cody’s efforts, they have raised enough money to install 20 solar panels, with the potential for more on the way.
The pair walked an average of 20km and 4-6 hours per day for four days over Spring Break 2021. In total, their journey took them five days, with one rest day before the big push of 30km to the finish line. It would have been easy to throw in the towel on this adventure as the pair got hit hard with rain. There When someone suggests working towards a big goal, Megan on this journey, with his go-getter mentality. were plenty of sock changes, snacks and stretching our initial reaction may be that of failure; it can feel When Megan first brought up the idea of raising breaks. There were blisters, sore feet, and tight legs, overwhelming and downright impossible, but as the $30,000 and walking 115km, Cody thought she was but Megan and Cody persevered to their goal. The Don’t Be Afraid small community of Tuwanek has witnessed, with crazy. consistent forward movement, anything is possible. To Be House-Proud Cody and his mom Megan Kelso have proved just that The Climb for Climate Change initiative has with their Climb for Climate Change initiative. two components to it; raising money for the BC Sustainable Energy Association (BCSEA) and the Cody, who is wise beyond his years, has, at 10 years BCSPCA- Sunshine Coast Branch for solar panels. old, been actively helping his community for the past At the beginning of 2021 Megan and Cody set out couple years. At 8 he ran his first food drive for the to raise $10,000 for the BCSEA and $20,000 for the Sunshine Coast Food Bank, followed by a fundraiser BCSPCA, totalling $30,000. Megan recognized early for the Sunshine Coast Wildlife Organization, before on that if they were asking for this much money, moving onto a fundraiser for the Earth Rangers to they needed to work for it, thus they decided to walk help the Wolverines. His attitude around helping his 115km from Gibsons to Powell River BC, finishing community is “why not?”, which at his age, is pretty their journey at the BCSPCA- Sunshine Coast, which inspiring; not everyone has the mentality to help is fittingly found on Solar Road. others, just because, and thanks to Megan, Cody is cultivating his abilities to create change. Most The BC Sustainable Energy Association is a volunteer- recently, with help from Megan, they’ve moved onto based charity that supports the sustainable an even bigger project, Climb for Climate Change. production, distribution, and consumption of PAUL’S PAINTIN’ PLACE LTD. energy in BC and beyond. They have four chapters 5476 Trail Ave, Sechelt Growing up, Megan did her part to reduce, reuse, in Vancouver, Victoria, Kamloops, and the Okanagan 604-740-0344 and recycle, as most of us were taught, but she never that interact directly with their members and the www.paulspaintinplace.com expected to play such a huge role in actively reducing general public to raise awareness around sustainable climate change. Cody has been a major catalyst for energy. They also work closely with the government 22 Coastal Vibe Summer 2021 Coastal Vibe Summer 2021 23 two spent their days chatting, singing, and working through riddles. Cody’s proudest moment was reaching the BCSPCA after a long 30km walk on the 604-885-5141 • 5501 Inlet Ave, Sechelt, BC V0N 3A0 final day, partially because that meant they hit their Exploring the Coast: Cliff Gilker Park BIG BOX PRICES goal, and partially because he was excited not to LOCAL SERVICE have to walk anymore. Our newly renovated store has display suites for several brands To give you the perfect appliance to fit your space, lifestyle and budget! Cody’s biggest take away is that if you’re going to do something, there will always be a price to pay, CMYK Exceptional service • Competitive pricing 100 64 0 0 Quality products and his price to pay was the pain he experienced on 70 15 0 0 75 0 75 0 Professional delivery and installation service this walk. He also learned that although things may 0 10 95 0 sscapplianceandmattress.com be difficult, you can always do it, which led to their motto of “Believe, Do, Achieve”. When asked if Cody feels like he can do anything now that he’s achieved Alignments this massive goal, his initial response was “not at all”; Brakes he then breaks it down into three categories; agility Easily the most scenic, popular, and family-friendly of great Pacific Ocean. This is the result of a few years of Electrical Service (physical), mental, expression (emotion). He feels as the Coast’s many park and trail networks, Cliff Gilker hatchery releases and spawning area development though he can do anything physical, because he’s Oil Change Regional Park has it all. decades ago, and it’s great to see that vision being already proven that to himself (although, he doesn’t fulfilled. Steering & Suspension want to ever walk this much again), but he still Just south of the Sunshine Coast Golf & Country Club and more! feels he needs to work on his mental and emotional on Highway 101 in Roberts Creek, the 64-hectare The man for whom the park was named settled in strength. Cody and Megan both found the most (160 acres) Cliff Gilker park’s dedicated hiking trails Roberts Creek with his wife Aletta (who gave her 102-5520 Sechelt Inlet Cres, Sechelt BC V7Z 0G1 challenging part of the walk was working through the (no cycles, no horses) are safe, well-posted and easy name to the park’s major waterfall) in the 1960s. 604-885-3155 or 604-885-2375 physical pain; dealing with blistered and bruised feet to follow. Some are wheelchair-accessible; these Both were active community volunteers with a strong www.oktire.com due to the wet and rainy weather. have almost no incline and are great for all ages vision for the Coast’s future. As one of the founding and abilities. Like many of the regional park trail members of the SCRD Board, Gilker eventually Megan and Cody are incredibly grateful for the networks, these are colour coded. Whichever route served as its chair. In this role, he was instrumental In a world where support they received from their community. is chosen, expect to enjoy camera-friendly glimpses in stickhandling the RD’s application to acquire you can be From financial donations, honking, and on-going of rushing Roberts and Clack creeks from the rustic DL1506 from the provincial government – scooping it anything…… Be kind encouragement, they felt incredibly supported footbridges, myriad waterfalls, and mossy glens out from under the Golf Club, which had previously Thank you for all your Support!! throughout this entire journey. They received only dense with ferns. Because the trails interconnect, applied for it. In tribute, the park was named for Cliff Mike Zacharias positive vibes from their community, which helped a hike can be as short or as meandering as time Gilker following his death in 1977. boost their morale. permits. Usually, to cover the 7km total trail network will take about two hours – depending on the hiker’s Fun fact #2: The existence of the province’s Regional Cody reminds us all to take action; he says that if fitness, determination, or challenges. District governance model, the Coast’s water you’re going to do something, then do it, because management and distribution system, the garbage this world isn’t going to change if we sit around and The picnic area and playground get busy in the collection and dump operations, and the recreation do nothing. Utilize summer months as families enjoy time together commission have all been credited to Cliff Gilker’s the support of the in the wilderness setting. Dogs are welcome, but vision and tenacity. Together with Frank West and ones around you, pull must be on-leash and owners must use the bags Norm Watson, he designed an Agricultural Regional from the strength provided to clean up after them. Waste receptacles District governance model that would oversee water of others, and be are provided. management. That original system was challenged by both federal and provincial levels of government but proud of yourself no There is ample parking near the playing fields, and was later tweaked, rebranded and recreated as the matter the outcome. the park is also easily accessible by transit. The #90 rural Regional District local government system that Inspiration looks bus stops at Roberts Creek Road and Highway 101 are would have oversight of infrastructure for rural areas. different to everyone, a short walk from the park entrance. and that inspiration As one of the SCRD’s first members-at-large, Cliff Find me at our Sechelt Location: Mike Zacharias lives within us, we Fun fact #1: Roberts and Clack Creeks are now Gilker’s first order of business was to get that water Registered Hearing Instrument Practitioner just need to find that salmon-bearing waterways, and at certain times of management and delivery system in place, then #101- 5710 Teredo Street (Teredo Square) 604-885-4327 spark and take action. the year, young fry can be spotted making their way moved on driving the other infrastructure initiatives YOUR HEARING PROFESSIONALS [email protected] ☐ down to the estuary and an eventual sojourn in the that so improved the Coast’s quality of life. ☐ 24 Coastal Vibe Summer 2021 Coastal Vibe Summer 2021 25 PRETTY NATTY DUDS The Wakefield Inn, Consignment Boutique Quality Consignment Clothing & Accessories for Women 1938-2005 By Glen A. Mofford “Young at Heart”
In September 2005, after sixty-seven years in service sold to business partners Stan Walker and Dick Kline Combine the food with an extensive selection of beer to the public as an Inn and popular local watering in July 1945. Walker was an experienced Alberta hotel on tap and in bottles plus wine and liquors and the 55+ last Wednesday of Mth 20% off hole, the Wakefield Inn near Sechelt on the Sunshine operator, formerly of Pincher Creek and partner Dick tremendous view proved to be a recipe for success. Private Shopping Experience. Ask for Details!! Coast closed. Gary and brother Rick Radymski with Kline of Vancouver was an ex-RCAF instructor. The owners supported and encouraged live music Always Something for 50% OFF their wives, Nancy, and Donna, were the last to own with an impressive array of local talent plus some Don’t See It Now? Request Our Registry! the popular hostelry. They purchased the Wakefield Dick Kline sold the Wakefield Inn to George Wardrope notable international stars that took the small stage Follow us on Facebook & Instagram Inn in the 1970s and turned it into a friendly social and managers came and went each adding their in the pub that included, Shari Ulrich, Jerry Doucette, decorative touch to the Inn. Manager Doug Lister Margot O’Reilly 5660 B Cowrie Street centre. The following article is a fond look back at the and Joni Michell. 604-740-0343 Sechelt, BC history of the Wakefield Inn, affectionately known by improved the parking lot and added lights for the A gathering place with a sense of humour regular customers as the “Wakie.” guests. For a few years in the mid-1960s, Bob and Co-owner Rick Radymski organized a live record Barbara Bazley owned the Wakefield Inn which they album to be recorded inside the pub of the Wakefield The Wakefield Inn and a nearby road got its name sold in 1967 for a tidy profit. The Bazley’s bought the Inn for the surprise and joy of the guests. Local artist from William Wakefield, a pioneer that operated a Inn and five acre property for $109,000 and sold two Stephen Hubert recorded ten songs ending with the farm on the property from 1906 to the mid-1920s. years later for $149,000. In 2006 the property was Wakefield, described as “a novelty song about a nice The building that housed the Wakefield Inn was reportedly sold in excess of $800,000 in which the place to meet your friends for a few beer.” Take a constructed in 1928 by Sunshine Coast craftsman, developer subdivided into twenty lots for a possible listen to Still Love to Sing, from side one of the album Hector McDonald, as a residence for T. Douglas “the plan worth $40 million. Such was the increasing value on YouTube. It was around that time when I visited Major” Sutherland, army veteran, BC police constable of waterfront property. the Sunshine Coast with a friend and drove past the and game warden in the area. The shake roof, ivy- Wakefield Inn unaware of what we were missing. covered, twin stone-chimney, two story structure had The last owners of the Wakefield Inn and property a fine view of Trail Bay, the Trail Islands and beyond were two brothers and their spouses, Gary and to Vancouver Island. Rick Radymski with Nancy and Donna Radymski. By 2005, after nearly 30 years in business at the They also owned the Inn for the longest period of Wakefield, the owners decided to sell the popular Inn On the eve of World War II, Major Sutherland left to time, from 1976 until they sold in September 2005. and Pub. In an interview with Andrew Scott published rejoin the Argyle and Sutherland Highlanders. A new According to most of the regulars, this was the golden in the Georgia Straight, Donna Radymski complained constable replaced Sutherland but shortly afterwards period for the Inn and especially for the pub that about the high taxes and added, “We have mixed the office and small jail were removed to Sechelt. saw some exciting changes such as bringing in local feelings about leaving,” she said. “We’ve been at it for Charles Reda leased the Sutherland residence and talented musicians. By this time Loggers’ sports days a long time. But it will probably be good for us to do renovated it into an Inn with a beer parlour license were held in the summer in the open field beside something else for a change.” in 1938. “Mr. Reda had a wonderful business, and it the pub and Windsurfing regattas took place off the was a pleasure to go to the Wakefield Inn and sip a beach. The Wakefield Inn is gone but its legacy remains cool glass of beer while sitting on the open verandah in the hearts of those who visited and above the overlooking the Strait of Georgia. What a wonderful The fine reputation that the Wakefield Inn already hearth of every one of the multi-million dollar setting for a tavern.” That was the beginning of the had with locals and the traveling public was further condominiums that replaced it in that wood from the Wakefield Inn and beer parlour, later popular pub, enhanced by the Radymski family. The food menu deconstructed Wakefield Inn was incorporated into and local music venue. Mr. Reda ran the place for the was expanded that featured the “Wakie” burger the fireplace mantelpieces of each of the new units. next seven years until the Inn and beer parlour was and fresh seafood dishes on the summer menu. ☐ 26 Coastal Vibe Summer 2021 Coastal Vibe Summer 2021 27 Photo credit: Nancy Shields during Ebb Tides and reverses during Flood Tides. It’s a lot of water moving very rapidly (up to 16 knots, or 30 km/h, or 18mph). In fact, it’s reputed to be the fastest tidal rapids in the world.
The fast-moving waters and varying tidal patterns attract an interesting variety of sea life, and it has become a source of delight for onlookers to see pods of orca carefully riding the tides through the narrows in search of herring and salmon.
Viewpoints may be accessed through Skookumchuck Provincial Park’s four-kilometer-long hiking trail. Expect the walk to either Roland Point or North Powering the Coast Point lookouts to take about an hour. Check the tide tables (can be downloaded as a PDF from Coastline Powersports sunshinecoastcanada.com or picked up at any #101 - 1870 Cosyan Way, Sunshine Coast Visitor Centre) and plan accordingly. Sechelt, BC For best waves (shown as L or XL on the table), plan on viewing at Flood Tide from Roland Point; for 604-885-4616 whirlpool and tidal pool action, watch during Ebb Tide from North Point. And in either case, don’t panic if the hike takes a little longer than planned – the coastlinepowersports.com action lasts from half an hour before the tidal peak, to half an hour after. Powersports • Marine • Power Equipment • Landscaping Skookumchuck Provincial Park is well worth a longer visit. Since it was first established in 1957, ParksBC FLATLINE MECHANICAL has developed many hiking trails through the 123 Penta-beam Pavilion hectare site. A favourite with birdwatchers, it attracts migrating songbirds, nesting raptors and waterfowl to Brown Lake as well as the ocean shore. From
Entry to the park is pedestrian only – vehicle parking Stump The Great Tides of the is available at the park entrance on Egmont Highway, across from the Egmont Heritage Centre (open daily To from 11am to 5pm until Thanksgiving) is definitely Patio Skookumchuck worth a visit. Surrounded by vintage logging equipment, the Heritage Centre fits into its natural surroundings Flatline Mechanical is a local beautifully. Admission is by donation. As visitors Millwright/Machine shop On the map and in the tide tables, it might be around the world and awe-inspiring for onlookers. specializing in precision labelled “Sechelt Inlet Narrows.” But to generations move through the displays, the story of indigenous timber products. We mill of white-water thrill seekers, hikers and locals, Water seeks its own level, as we learned back in and pioneer settlers unfolds naturally. Exhibits of local logs into pre-fitted post marine engines, antique glass and other artifacts are beam timber frames, carports, the old Chinook Jargon name of Skookum (great, elementary school science class. However, the pavilions, custom pergolas or powerful) chuck (water) better describes this levels on either side of the rapids between Jervis of particular interest. and more. natural wonder. The rapids in this narrowing that and Sechelt inlets can differ by up to two metres, The centre also offers ample parking, restrooms, wifi, Call now to make your post depending on the time of year and phase of the & beam dream a reality. connects Sechelt and Jervis Inlets are famous for internet access and an EV charging station. their spectacular whirlpools and eddies; riding the moon. So as the tide changes, the water flow from Danny Neufeld huge standing waves (up to nine feet or three meters) Sechelt, Salmon and Narrows Inlet passes over the Definitely worth the drive to the “top of the Coast,” 41-1877 Field Rd, Sechelt BC that accompany the tidal surge is great sport for rapids and through the narrow gap into Jervis inlet, visitors will find that Egmont is truly a skookum 780-536-719 [email protected] accomplished, extremely experienced kayakers from creating whitecaps and waves even in calm weather hidden gem. ☐ 28 Coastal Vibe Summer 2021 Coastal Vibe Summer 2021 29 Photo credit: Stephanie Taylor Are We There Yet?? Welcome to the Are you new You have made your move. You may still be unpacking or you’re all settled in. Perhaps you have visited on to the numerous occasions, stayed with friends and family, or come here once to sightsee and fell in love. As you Sunshine Coast? settle in, I hope that you can now relax, slow down and take a deep breath. Sunshine Coast As a “Coaster” you will find people happy. People say hi or wave a thank you as you slow down to pass them on the road. As you look around you will see peace and laughter, chatter, and smiles. Here’s some must see ideas to check out as you settle into your new home. Pop into your local Visitor Information Centres located in Pender Harbour, Gibsons or Sechelt. These folks are amazing and can show you other fun ways to experience the Sunshine Coast. Looking for Farmer’s Markets? We have quite a few: Gibsons, Gambier Island, Roberts Creek, Sechelt and Madeira Park. Gibsons Farmers Market, Sundays, 10am-2:30pm (May to Sept) Located at Persephone Brewing Company. Roberts Creek Community Farm Market & Roberts Creek Farm Gate Market, Wednesdays, 1:30pm-5:30pm (year-round) Located at Roberts Creek Hall. Sechelt Farmers’ and Artisans’ Market Saturdays, 9am-2:30pm (April to Sept) Located in downtown Sechelt. Madeira Park Farmers’ Market: Fridays, 11am-3pm (April to Sept) And Gambier Island has its own, just hop on a boat and scoot over. And for those other days of the week, keep an eye out for some excellent farms on the side roads or highways selling their produce. The Sunshine Coast is a place to bring out your inner child and expand your mind to the possibilities of “what if”. Enjoy the amazing entrepreneurs here that have opened little businesses in their homes or shops. Take the time to explore and maybe it will bring out ideas that you have yearned to do, or talents that you have always wanted to share but have not had the courage, time, or someone willing to offer their assistance to get you off the ground. Just remember, you’re now on “Coastal Time”. Slow down, smile, breathe deep, say thank you. Watch for our amazing wildlife that may cross your path in the trails, on the side roads, or highways. Please remember to always be aware of something coming out onto the road and drive with great caution, as they are a huge part of what makes our Coastal Community so special and unique. Most importantly, reach out to the Neighbourhood Welcome program, I would love to officially Welcome you with a gift package from our outstanding business partners and the local community. Otherwise, my wish to you is enjoy your life on the Sunshine Coast and we welcome you with open arms. Welcome Home!! Stephanie
A BIG Thank you to our amazing partners Advantage Dental - Angelic Visions - Aqui es Mexico Restaurante - Blue Ocean Golf Club - Bravo Floors & Decor - Cactus Flower Fashions - Coastal Window Coverings Ltd. - Daily Roast - Dave Coyle Antique Repro - Deborah Interiors - Eco-Freako - Fibre Expressions Quilt Shop - Game Point - Gibsons Florist - GreenScapes - Home Hardware - IGA - Ikhaya - Just Skin - Kenmac Parts (1967) Ltd - Les Fleurs De Fi - Mikayla Fit - Montgomery Hardwood - Natural Know How - Olson Electric Ltd. - PaceSetter Athletic - Paul’s Paintin Place - Pawsitive Adventures - Peggy Sue’s - Pepper Creek Pizza & Pasta - Pharmasave - Pretty Natty Duds - Progress Group - Quality Garden & Pet - Rainbow Room Hair Salon - Rent-It! Canada - Roberts Creek Wellbeing - Rug Runners SC Flooring Specialists - Sechelt Legion - Sechelt Plumbing - Sechelt Pizza Co. - Contact Sunshine Coast Neighbourhood Welcome today Sechelt Tasters Oil & Vinegar - Sew Easy - Shell - Sluggers Family Gym - South Coast Ford - Steph’s The Beauty Boutique - Strait Coffee Ltd - and sign up for your free welcome package. SC Coast Appliance & Mattress Experts - Sunshine Coast Air - Sunshine Coast Golf & Country Club - SC Self-Storage - SC Community Services Stephanie Taylor Society - SC Wine Making - Sweetlegs Gibsons with Sue - Swish Apparel - Talbot Insurance Services Ltd - The 101 Brewhouse Distillery - The Gibsons Butcher - The Landing Clothing Co. - Thomas Heating & Electric - Unclog It - Undercover Roofing - Underwire Bra & Boutique - 604-992-6261 Upstairs & Downstairs Shoppe - Village Dental House - Wilson Creek U Brew [email protected] Find us on Facebook at Sunshine Coast Neighbourhood Welcome 30 Coastal Vibe Summer 2021 COADYCOADY COADY 778778 888888 62737786273 888 6273
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